Empa researchers develop light-controlled patches for wound treatment

Researchers at Empa have developed a new material for intelligent wound dressings that uses light to control the release of active ingredients. This technology aims to assist in the treatment of chronic wounds, such as those caused by diabetic foot syndrome, which can persist for more than four weeks and require intensive medical resources.

Additionally, transdermal therapeutic systems (TDDS), including patches and gels, are gaining importance as non-invasive alternatives to oral medications or injections. These systems allow for continuous drug delivery over 12 to 24 hours, maintaining stable blood concentrations and bypassing the gastrointestinal tract and liver metabolism. This approach can reduce systemic side effects like nausea or gastric irritation and improve treatment adherence, particularly for elderly patients or those with swallowing difficulties.